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Complimentary JAN/FEB 2026 Volume 17 | Issue 1

Inspiring, Informing, Enriching

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contents cover story 16

Complimentary JAN/FEB 2026 Volume 17 | Issue 1

Our Favorite Covers

Inspiring, Informing, Enriching

Our 2026 Wedding Guide

A compilation of some of the best covers of the magazine from the past 16 years.

Tips for Buying a Drone

features 18 Our 2026 Wedding Guide

Tips, trends, and more to help you plan your special day.

26 So You Want to Fly a Drone?

They’re all the rage. Here’s what you need to know before buying one.

departments

18

4

Letter From the Publisher A vacation to remember.

In our special wedding section, we discuss everything from the latest wedding accessories to how to choose a caterer.

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8

10

12

14

28

30

Happenings in our ’hood.

Making the most of your local library.

The real cost of having financial FOMO.

Getting to know Rome photographer Paul O’Mara.

Discovering the wonders of Türkiye.

Mouthwatering meatless meals.

As you get older, your age isn’t the only thing that goes up.

Calendar for Living

Dog Eared

Dollars & Sense Community

2 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Wanderlust

Get Cookin’

Robert’s World

Georgia’s Rome Welcome Center & Gift Shop Your Place for the Perfect Gifts and Wedding Event Information Plan the Perfect Day Book the Perfect Place

Shop a great selection of locally made wedding gifts and favors.

Learn about free resources like our venue guide.

Arrive in Style

Book the Roman Rose Trolley or Roman Royal Carriage for your special day.

Come see us at the Northwest Georgia Wedding Expo 2026 Sunday, February 1 | 1pm - 5pm | Forum River Center

Visit RomeGeorgia.org/Wedding

d LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Belize is a Trip

R

ecently, my husband, Jerry, and I were invited by our friends Kyle and Wannetta Beck to join them on a trip to Belize, and, eager for a new experience, we said yes. I thought Belize would be similar to Mexico, which it borders, but it isn’t as touristy, the locals are friendly, and it seemed safe.

We stayed at a beach condo near Placencia, a coastal town at the end of a narrow peninsula. Although the population is mostly Mayan and AfroCaribbean, the official language is English. There are Creole restaurants and tons of places serving plentiful, fresh seafood. Lobster is in season from June until February, so we had our own little Lobsterfest. We also found the best authentic Italian restaurant called La Dolce Vita. Francis Ford Coppola owns a fabulous beach resort in the area called the Turtle Inn, and we were frequent guests at its eateries. I’ll admit, we ate our weight in Belize.

We traveled in November, before high season, enduring rain daily except for the last two days. The weather didn’t hold us back, though, as our gang was ready to explore. We took a river trip on a tiny ship on a three-hour tour … just kidding; the weather didn’t get rough, Something fishy’s going on in this shot of me and my husband on a and Gilligan wasn’t part of the crew. As recent trip to Belize. we cruised along the Monkey River, we spotted an enormous crocodile and large black iguana. Then we hiked in the woods, where we saw howler monkeys roosting in the treetops. The next day, we rented ATVs. I had the largest one and kept forgetting to hit the brakes, causing me to run into the high, grassy fields. Not wanting to hold up the group, I jumped on the back of one of our guide’s ATVs, and we split off so that my husband could get his need for speed. We raced up the mountain to the Maya King Waterfalls, where Jerry took a cool swim.

We also took a tour of a Mayan cocoa farm, where we participated in the ancient tradition of processing cocoa into mostly dark chocolate. It was educational, and, of course, we all tried the sweets. Jerry went spearfishing, bringing home fresh fish and lobster, which we promptly cooked up. For me, though, the best experience was a sunset horseback-riding trip on the beach.

Because I was the most experienced rider, the guide saddled me on a lively paint stallion, while the others had mild-mannered horses. We rode into the surf up to our knees, enjoying this peaceful place. On the return, a big dog jumped out and spooked my horse, who bucked a few times, then jerked his head down. I tumbled off, landing with my head right at the horse’s front hoofs. The fantastic part is, I sprang up and jumped right back on the horse, feeling 16 again!

If you enjoyed reading about my Belize adventure, be sure to check out our Wanderlust column (page 14), which will take you on a tour of Türkiye, or read about the exploits of Paul O’Mara (page 12), who used to be a photographer for the Navy’s Blue Angels acrobatic flying squadron. This issue marks our sixteenth anniversary, and there’s lots more for you to enjoy.

4 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

JAN/FEB 2026 Volume 17 | Issue 1

Publisher and Founder Editor-in-Chief Laura Wood Erickson Editor Jill Becker Creative Director Andi Counts Designer Mackenzie Allanson Copy Editor Elin Woods Contributing Writers Jill Becker Kim Bussey Jonathan Cunningham Ande Frazier Holly Lynch Kathy Patrick Robert Smyth Ilyse Tasdemir Elin Woods Web Master Veridian Design Group Sales Laura Wood Erickson wood.laura@yahoo.com Contact us at: (706) 346-9858 wood.laura@yahoo.com NW Georgia Living P.O. Box 72546 Marietta, GA 30007 We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material.

NW Georgia Living is published bimonthly by L. Wood LLC. Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied, scanned, or reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from the publisher.

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d CALENDAR FOR LIVING

Two nights of nonstop action and high adrenaline rodeo fun. forumrivercenter.com

Cartersville Glass Show & Sale

© Ann Litrel, Heaven and Earth – On Brasstown Bald, 2025, watercolor, 16 x 20, Collection of the artist

Jan 17 & 18 Clarence Brown Conference Center, Cartersville Annual event featuring antique and collectible glass in styles such as milk glass, hobnail, and barware. cartersvillemuseumcity.com/ events

ThunderBeard

Jan 24, 7:30pm GEM Theatre, Calhoun The ultimate ZZ Top tribute band brings their energy to hits like “Tush” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” calhoungemtheatre.org

The Rink at Ridge Ferry Park

Feb 6-8 & 13-15 DeSoto Theater, Rome A Rome Little Theatre performance based on the best-selling book by Cheryl Strayed. romelittletheatre.com

Jan 23 & 24 Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville Join 100 women from across the country for a weekend that will bring out the fierce cowgirl in everyone. boothmuseum.org

The Highwaymen

Feb 7, 7pm Grand Theatre, Cartersville Pays tribute to the great American outlaws of country music: Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. thegrandtheatre.org

Muscadine Bloodline

Jan 24, 7:30pm Forum River Center, Rome The country duo from southern Alabama performs. forumrivercenter.com

GA Natural Wonders: A Journey from Marshland to Mountains

Jan 6-Mar 1 Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville A showcase of original works from Georgia artists Ann Litrel and Charles Seabrook’s new book 35 Natural Wonders of Georgia to See Before You Die. boothmuseum.org

Three Rivers Bull Riding

Jan 9 & 10, 6pm Forum River Center, Rome 6 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Sense and Sensibility

Feb 6-8 & 13-15 Legion Theatre, Cartersville The Pumphouse Players’ playful adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel follows the fortunes and misfortunes of the Dashwood sisters. pumphouseplayers.com

Tiny Beautiful Things

Cowgirl Collective

Thru Jan 20 Ridge Ferry Park, Rome A seasonal outdoor ice rink providing fun for the whole family. rfpra.com/iceskating

performs the legendary band’s greatest hits. romeauditorium.com

Sweet Baby James

Northwest Georgia Wedding Expo

Feb 1, 1pm Forum River Center, Rome An afternoon of wedding inspiration and celebration, with exhibits from 40-plus vendors, fashion shows, and more. forumrivercenter.com

The Ultimate Doors

Feb 6, 7pm Rome City Auditorium, Rome The Doors tribute band

Feb 20, 7:30pm Grand Theatre, Cartersville Nashville singer-songwriter Bill Griese brings his acclaimed James Taylor tribute to town. thegrandtheatre.org

Quintet for Piano and Winds

Feb 28, 7pm Rome City Auditorium, Rome The Rome Symphony Orchestra presents Mozart's famous Piano Quintet in E-flat major, alongside a piano quintet by Fritz Spindler. romesymphony.org

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d DOG EARED

Check It Out From loaner laptops to free language classes, there’s a lot more to your local library than just books.

BY ELIN WOODS

T

his issue, I’m switching things up a bit. Instead of offering book recommendations, I’m going to, as a very biased professional librarian, share some of the many benefits of visiting your local library, beyond just the stacks upon stacks of wonderful things to read. Below are five of my favorite things about libraries. Hopefully, they’ll convince you to become a new or more active user of your branch of the six libraries that make up Northwest Georgia’s Sara Hightower Regional Library System (SHRLS).

1. Books for everyone. It goes without saying that libraries are full of books — both physical and digital — that will appeal to folks of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. If you can dream it, the library can help you find it, whether it’s classic comic books or the latest spy thriller. However, one of the coolest aspects of libraries is that when they say that “books are for everyone,” they truly mean it, because in Georgia, that includes access to the Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled. If you, or someone you know, loves to read but needs tools or access to books in the way that best works for them, your local librarian can help.

2. Fun programs and free goodies. Libraries, of course, have things like book clubs and reading challenges, but they’ve also got some creative programming up their sleeves. At SHRLS branches, you’ll find needlework and crochet programs (to name just a few of the crafty options), a fitness class for seniors, and a multitude of cool-sounding programs for children and teens. You can also get passes for free admission to places like the Alliance Theatre, Center for Puppetry Arts, Chattahoochee Nature Center, and Georgia’s state parks and historic sites.

1

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Sara Hightower Regional Library System Consists of branches in Cave Spring, Cedartown, Rockmart, Rome, Summerville, and Trion.

For more information, visit shrls.org.

8 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

3

3. Checking out more than just books. The digital divide is real, and not everyone has access to technology. The library tries to combat this by lending various forms of tech to its patrons, including Chromebooks, hot spots, and educational tools for kids. The folks behind the library desk can often also be helpful with your own tech, all while purposely trying to avoid intimidating technical terms that might be above some people’s heads. Some libraries even give you access to things like sewing machines and 3-D printers, either for free or a small fee. Many of them, including the SHRLS branches, offer copying, faxing, laminating, and printing services as well.

4. Access to the latest movies and TV shows. Don’t want to pay for another streaming subscription? Don’t worry, the library has you covered with plenty of media to check out, mostly in the form of DVDs these days, although some libraries still have other options. Some libraries even have auditoriums or other spaces where they offer free movie screenings.

5. Valuable online and e-resources. Free resources are another valuable library offering, because, like streaming services, they often come with subscription costs that you’d otherwise have to pay. SHRLS branches, for example, have ABCmouse, an online learning program for kids; the library edition of Ancestry.com; Kanopy, which is home to movies and documentaries you can stream from wherever you want to watch; and Mango Languages, a platform that lets you learn more than 70 different languages.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though. I could create an even longer list of reasons to love the library, and even then, I’d likely have left something out. Libraries are more than just book repositories; they’re often the heart of the community and a place where everyone is welcome. This year, make it one of your resolutions to explore all of your library’s offerings and support it however you can. As long as you’re a resident, a library card is free, so why not take full advantage of it?

4 5

Elin Woods is a librarian from the mountains of western Pennsylvania.

When she's not busy reading, she enjoys baking historical treats and exploring the East Coast. She balances her mostly nonfiction history reading with the occasional modern romance novel and plenty of cookbooks.

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d DOLLARS & SENSE

Resisting Financial FOMO

BY ANDE FRAZIER

H

The cost of comparing spending in a swipe-driven world.

ere’s how it goes: You’re scrolling on your phone and come across a post with pics of your friend’s recent trip to Europe — her second this year. Then it’s a post from the couple next door showing off their recent kitchen remodel, complete with a marble waterfall island and a built-in wine fridge. That’s followed by a post from a co-worker announcing they just bought a fancy new RV. That’s when you start to feel it, that little twist in your gut. Yes, financial FOMO (fear of missing out) is a very real thing, and it’s sneaky. That’s because we don’t always recognize it as nothing more than envy, so we end up upgrading our car a year earlier than we’d planned, booking a vacation we can’t quite afford, or clicking “Add to Cart” when our budget is saying, “Please don’t.” But here’s the thing: That impulse? It’s not about money. It’s about meaning.

When Lifestyle Feels Like a Competition In today’s social media world, we’re not just keeping up with the Joneses; we’re trying to keep up with their filters, their financing, and their vacation packages.

What used to be the occasional glimpse into someone’s life is now a daily highlight reel curated to perfection.

Even if we know that’s not the full picture, our brains respond emotionally before they react rationally. And that’s why your budget spreadsheets won’t save you from financial FOMO. Because

Ask yourself: “Would I still want this if no one else saw it?”

Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock.com

money isn’t just math. It’s personal, it’s emotional, and it’s full of stories we tell ourselves about what success is supposed to look like.

What’s Really Driving the Swipe If you’ve ever bought something just because you “deserve it” or justified an expense because “everyone else has one,” you’re not alone. Comparison spending usually isn’t about the stuff; it’s about what we think the stuff means.

For example: • A new car? “I’ve made it.”

• A designer handbag? “I belong.”

• A luxury trip? “I’m not missing out.”

The problem? While those purchases may give us a momentary boost, they often leave a lingering hangover of stress, debt, and regret. We end up financing a lifestyle we don’t need or even want just to prove something we’re not even sure we believe.

How to Resist the Comparison Trap So, how do you fight back without chucking your phone out the window or becoming a hermit? Here are a few mindset shifts and practical steps: 1. Know what you’re really after.

Spend time getting clear on your version of success, not your neighbor’s, your boss’s, or your old college roommate’s.

What kind of life are you building?

Money is a tool, so point it in the direction of your actual dreams, not someone else’s Instagram page.

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10 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

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2. Audit your feeds. If certain people, brands, or influencers consistently make you feel “less than,” unfollow or mute them. Seriously. You’re allowed to protect your peace and your spending habits.

3. Pause before you purchase.

FOMO-fueled decisions are emotional and fast, so slow them down. Use the 24-hour rule. Ask yourself: “Would I still want this if no one else saw it?” That question alone can be a game changer.

4. Spend on your terms. Plan purchases that bring joy, but on your timeline and budget. You don’t have to live like a monk to be financially responsible. You just need to ensure you’re purchasing purposefully.

3

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Your Life. Your Math. Your Rules.

At the end of the day, money decisions aren’t just about dollars and cents.

They’re about identity, values, and trust in yourself and your plan. So next time you feel the tug of financial FOMO, take a breath. Remember: You’re not behind and you’re not missing out; you’re just building something different.

And different can be exactly right when it’s yours.

Ande Frazier is a nationally recognized author and financial expert based in Rome, Georgia. Specializing in behavioral finance, she writes and speaks about how emotions and mindset shape our financial decisions. She is a frequent contributor to outlets like CNBC, HuffPost, and Yahoo Finance, and is the author of the Amazon best-seller Fin(anci)ally Free.

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d COMMUNITY

Getting to Know …

Paul O’Mara

Professional photographer

BY JILL BECKER

I

f a photo is worth a thousand words, then Rome-based photographer Paul O’Mara has enough stories to fill a pretty hefty-sized book. O’Mara, now 72, had an interest in the art form from an early age, and began his career in 1977 as a photographer for the U.S. Navy. In 1981, while completing his photojournalism fellowship at Syracuse University, he was offered a job as a photographer for the Navy’s prestigious Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron. He traveled around the U.S., snapping images as the team performed their aerial magic and interacted with fans after the shows. Later, O’Mara worked as the lead photographer for the Rome News-Tribune, covering “everything from meetings to sports to news and then some.” Today, O’Mara runs his own photography business, working primarily with educational institutions like Berry College and Lee University. Here’s more from this seasoned shutterbug.

How did you get interested in photography?

I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, which had a strong photography community.

I was intrigued by all of the wonderful photography that seemed to be celebrated there.

What was your first camera?

A Pentax Spotmatic.

Did you have any other jobs before becoming a photographer?

I once worked on a steamboat. I was 23 and living in New Orleans. I was

considering enlisting in the Navy, but was told there would be a nine-month delay before I could join. I needed a job until then and responded to a newspaper ad saying the Delta Queen steamboat was looking for crew members. I accepted a job as a porter, signed my Navy enlistment, and then traveled the Ohio and Mississippi rivers for the next seven months.

Tell me about the first photo you ever took when you thought, hey, I might have a future in this.

I photographed a sunrise at a thoroughbred farm.

What’s your favorite subject to photograph?

People and communities.

Have you photographed any major celebrities over the years?

I photograph for homebuilders and occasionally real estate. Some industrial photo work, too.

What’s your dream photograph?

Something or someone you’ve always wanted to capture on film?

I'll let you know when I find it.

What’s your favorite place in Northwest Georgia?

Wardlaw's Lucky Eye Q in LaFayette.

What’s your favorite expression or quote?

Rome will thrive despite itself.

What’s something that’s always on your bedside table?

A copy of David Allen Sibley’s Backyard Birds of the Southeast.

Yes, Ronald Reagan, Bob Hope, John Travolta, Tom Selleck, John Glenn, James Dickey, and Madeleine Albright.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Any interesting celebrity stories?

If you could meet anyone alive or dead, who would it be?

I was assigned by Berry College to photograph Maya Angelou during a speech she was making in their chapel.

Her spellbinding presence made for a silent crowd. I was attempting to muffle the sound of my shutter as I photographed her, but it cut through the silence, and she let me and the audience know it!

Besides your work with colleges and universities, what other types of work do people hire you for?

12 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Lobster.

W. Eugene Smith.

What do you do when you need inspiration?

Walk.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Give it a try.

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d WANDERLUST

Discovering the Wonders of Türkiye A personal journey through the transcontinental nation’s history, culture, and hospitality.

BY ILYSE TASDEMIR

I

first visited Türkiye, then known to the world as Turkey, in 1988.

I had been backpacking for two-and-a-half years and only planned to stay for two weeks. Fate, however, intervened when a motorcycle accident altered the course of my life.

What began as a short detour turned into a lifelong love affair, with both my now-husband and this spectacular country. Now my second home, I remain continuously amazed by the beauty and diversity of the land, and by the generosity and kindness of the Turkish people. Hoping to share our love for Türkiye with others, my husband and I started leading group tours of the country through our company, Türkiye Travels. Here are some of the highlights.

Breaking Stereotypes For many Americans, Türkiye remains shrouded in stereotypes that fail to capture the country’s diversity and richness. The image of Türkiye that often appears in Western media overlooks the reality: a land filled with ancient history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and some of

Some of the stunning architecture at the centuriesold Topkapi Palace.

the warmest, most welcoming people in the world.

Although One of the many unique hotels built into caves in the Cappadocia region. backpackers and European vacationers have long ventured here, Türkiye still the sultan’s mother and wives lived. feels a little off the radar for many Far from being secluded figures, the travelers outside the region. Yet its women of the harem wielded significant roots run deeper than almost anywhere power, overseeing finances, enforcing else on earth. Human settlements in rules, and even influencing politics Türkiye date back to around 9600 BCE, and philanthropy. and the Hittite Empire, the Trojan War, Nearby, the Hagia Sophia and the and the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine Blue Mosque stand as twin marvels of periods all left their marks on the land. architecture and faith. A stroll across For centuries, the Ottoman Empire the Galata Bridge connects you to ruled until the founding of the modern another side of the city, where fishermen Republic of Türkiye in 1923. At just cast their lines and locals gather. If you over 100 years old, modern Türkiye visit during Ramadan, you may witness is a young nation built on layers of families breaking their fast together on extraordinary history. the open grounds between the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque — a moving Istanbul: Where Continents and scene of community and tradition.

Cultures Meet Another must is wandering through No trip to Türkiye is complete without the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and a visit to Istanbul, the country’s capital largest covered markets in the world. and most iconic city, and the bridge From spices and textiles to jewelry and between Europe and Asia. With a antiques, its many treasures are a feast population of more than 15 million, for the senses.

Istanbul can feel overwhelming, so Hotel of note: The Pera Palace if your time is limited, focus on the Hotel, which opened in 1895 as the Sultanahmet area. Though touristy, final destination of the Orient Express it offers the richest concentration luxury passenger train, is a modern of landmarks and experiences, with four-star property where Agatha Christie accommodations to suit every budget. is said to have written Murder on the Begin at the Topkapi Palace, once Orient Express. home to the Ottoman sultans. Walking Cappadocia: A Landscape Like through its lavishly tiled chambers and No Other courtyards feels like stepping back into another era. One of the palace’s most If Istanbul dazzles with its history, fascinating sections is the harem, where Cappadocia astounds with its natural

14 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

budget-friendly to luxury, provide a unique and unforgettable stay.

Ephesus: Walking Through Ancient Times

A feast for the eyes: a stall at the Grand Bazaar (above) and hot-air balloons ascending over Cappadocia (top of page).

wonders. Located in central Anatolia, the region is famed for its otherworldly landscapes of fairy chimneys and rock-carved dwellings. For many visitors, the highlight is a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, when hundreds of colorful balloons float gracefully above the valleys and volcanic formations.

The Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into ancient monastic life, with rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Beneath the surface, Cappadocia hides vast underground cities, some of which descend more than 15 levels deep. These subterranean refuges once sheltered up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock and supplies, as a way to protect them from invading armies.

Art and craftsmanship thrive here as well. A visit to Chez Galip showcases the work of Galip Körükçü, an internationally renowned sixthgeneration potter whose artistry connects the region’s deep traditions with contemporary creativity.

Hotel of note: Any of Cappadocia’s cave hotels, which range from

On Türkiye’s Aegean coast lies Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Once a bustling Roman metropolis and major center of early Christianity, Ephesus offers an unparalleled journey into the past. Walking its marble streets, you’ll encounter the remains of grand theaters, aqueducts, and the famed Library of Celsus, whose elegant facade still inspires awe.

Nearby stands the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though only a single column remains today. The House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where Mary spent her final years, draws pilgrims of all faiths. Together, these sites make Ephesus a destination that seamlessly blends archaeology, spirituality, and the past.

Hotel of note: The Akanthus Hotel in Selçuk, praised for its hospitality and attention to detail, offers guests excellent quality and a restful night’s sleep.

A Country That Calls You Back From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the dreamlike valleys of Cappadocia to the ancient grandeur of Ephesus, Türkiye offers an endless variety of experiences. And yet, no matter how much you see, you’ll always feel there’s more waiting to be discovered.

For me, what began as a brief stop on a larger journey became a lifelong connection. Once you visit, you may find yourself, like me, longing to return again and again.

Atlanta-based Ilyse Tasdemir and her Turkish-born husband, Faruk, offer personalized tours of Türkiye for a maximum of six guests every April and October. Check out their website or reach out for additional information.

TÜRKIYE TRAVELS turkiye-travels.com | (404) 934-4108

At more than 1,400 years old, the Hagia Sophia is a brilliant example of Byzantine art and design.

nwgeorgialiving.com | 15

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To mark our 16th anniversary, we present some of the best NW Georgia Living covers through the years.

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BY LAURA WOOD ERICKSON

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started this magazine 16 years ago.

It took months to print the first issue — long enough that my son, Winston, started calling it my “fake magazine.” My mother, Gene Murphy, helped with the editing, but we did have one funny Clockwise from left: sary mistake in that first issue: The Calendar listed Annivertion Issue Ultimate My dog Bam gracing the cover e !

– Th the “Duplicate Bride Club” instead of the Skyfalldrenaline Rush of the Spring 2015* issue, the cover of the Celekbra A ch un ration Br ac first-ever issue (Spring 2010), and Cartersville’s nna Blse A Celeb Je e “Duplicate Bridge Club.” Oops! t nc is rt ed A ur Dog’s Es Featurre den s Yo iconic 4 Way diner on the Holiday 2020* cover. tage Gar Captu glish Cot En One of the most important aspects to me an e Creat has always been that moment when someone decides to pick up a copy of the magazine, so the have been so many excellent covers, in fact, it was almost cover has to instantly grab people’s attention.

And N W G E O thanks R G I A to impossible to choose our favorites. our team, I think we’ve consistently achieved that goal. There Each cover has its own story, too, adding to the magazine’s legacy. Many of the earlier covers featured photos by Patricia N W G E O R G I A Montgomery, and those creative sessions are among my favorite memories. For example, on a freezing, blustery day The magazine that gives you more for the Winter 2014 cover shoot featuring Doug’s Place in Emerson (see below), the sky was gray, but Pat made it shine blue — resulting in a winning cover. For the Celebration 2014 cover showcasing Cartersville’s historic Grand Oaks estate (not shown), Pat painstakingly edited out the lingering Christmas lights that were still up in late April.

Hit the Road for Sixteen years have flown by because this magazine is my Great Day-cations! passion. I’m proud of the creative team at Veridian Design Grilling & Chilling Group and my editor, Jill Becker. Of course, I’m thankful for HOT Summer Reads my advertisers as well. Most of all, I’m thankful to you for Patio Pizzazz — Build it in a Day reading NW Georgia Living and supporting my dream.

Enter to the Sto Win Stuffer cking Giveaw ay!

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Holiday Tradition s Uncove Tips on red Ho Won’t Bu liday Shoppi ng st the Pi ggy Bank that

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Our

2026

Wedding Guide After the engagement comes the wedding — one of the most special and important days of your life. It’s an event that commemorates and celebrates your love and shares your union with beloved friends and family. But planning your big day comes with countless decisions to be made, deadlines to be met, and more. In this section, we offer you some insight and advice designed to help make your wedding as special and unique as your individual love story.

Photo by Megan Kuhn Photography

18 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Featured Collections

Blooming T's Bridal

212 N 5th Avenue, Rome, Ga 30161 | (706) 237-7200

Weddings By the Numbers Online

Most Popular Way Couples

Met

December

t Engaged

Most Popular Month to Ge

October

t Married

Most Popular Month to Ge

15 months

116

Average Guest Size

14

Average Number of Vendors Hired

18%

Percentage of Destination Weddings

69%

Months to Wed) Planning Timeline (Average

Percentage of Couples Who Take a Honeymoon and/or Mini-moon

$33,000

Living up to guest expectations

Average Wedding Cost

rldwide taken from The Knot Wo SOURCE: U.S. statistics ort.

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20 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

#1 Wedding Concern Among Couples

n o o M t s e Harv

WEDDING CATERING & VENUES

Mezzaluna • Moon River • Broad & Fifth • The Vogue

­

Ricky Hames / Catering Director Harvest Moon Catering • Harvest Moon Venues 234 Broad Street • Rome, Georgia 706-291-4224 • Catering@MyHarvestMoonCafe.com

www.myHarvestMoonCafe.com

706- 291- 4 2 2 4

Choosing the Right Caterer For Your Big Day Tips for ensuring that the food at your wedding is as special and memorable as the rest of your event.

BY HOLLY LYNCH, OWNER, THE SEASON EVENTS

A

s your plans for your wedding start taking shape, Per-head pricing can be misleading, as the price may include one of the most important decisions you’ll the food but not the labor. Keep in mind that the guest count make is choosing your caterer. All weddings, often determines how many workers are needed, so going from whether in the morning, afternoon, or evening, 50 guests to 100 guests could affect labor costs. typically have some kind of food and beverage for guests to The style of food service can also affect the labor costs. For enjoy. Choosing someone to make and serve that food is based example, having plated meals instead of a buffet means more on many factors, some of which you might not have even servers will be needed. Also, small-bite appetizers, aka heavy considered. Here’s some helpful information to help steer you hors d’oeuvres, can be more time-consuming to create, so a through the process. light meal might actually be more costYour head count is extremely effective. If you don’t want to spend important when starting the conversation, a lot on food, consider having your as the number of guests is the single ceremony at a time that isn’t right at biggest driver of catering costs. Feeding mealtime, like mid-afternoon. Also, a more people means more expense. brunch or light lunch can be way more If you have lots of children or guests budget-friendly than a dinner with a with dietary restrictions, make sure to cocktail hour preceding it. share that information with the caterer The venue is also a factor. Some during your initial inquiry. Most caterers allow outside caterers, others have a You should like what you have policies for children’s meals and preferred list, and still others don’t allow can accommodate special diets, but them at all, which is essential to know eat on your wedding day! before booking the space. Approved it’s important to discuss them ahead of time. Ask, for instance, how they’ll caterers will have gone through a handle it if an unexpected guest with a dietary need shows up. vetting process in which their health department inspections, Catering prices can vary greatly. In our area, most caterers insurance, and references are thoroughly reviewed. price for the food items and then add the necessary labor Another issue to consider is whether the venue has adequate and travel expenses to make the event happen at your venue. kitchen space for your caterer. Bringing food to a site involves 22 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

hot boxes, coolers, and other temperature-holding equipment, so knowing what the kitchen includes and how much space is available is vital. Some venues have lots of space but don’t have ovens or sinks. These details will be important to share with your caterer. If they have to bring hot-holding equipment or their own potable water, that could affect your costs.

If your caterer will also be providing the bar services, make sure to ask if they’ll be providing the actual beer, wine, and liquor, or if you have to provide them. If it’s going to be a cash bar, each state has specific licensing requirements regarding caterers selling alcoholic products, so make sure you and your caterer are clear about who’s providing what. Your venue may also have its own regulations for the sale and service of alcohol.

It’s always the safest bet to have a licensed bartender for your event. Alcohol can significantly drive up the costs of your event, so make sure it's something you’re comfortable with before adding the service.

A final, accurate head count is of utmost importance and is usually due two to three weeks before your wedding. Caterers have to place wholesale orders for your grocery items, and it’s a bit more complicated than just a routine shopping list.

Wholesale orders come in case quantities, so your event may only require a partial case of something, and all of that has to be figured out by your caterer while also meeting the ordering deadlines for the delivery schedules. Adjusting a head count after the caterer’s deadline date might cause extra expense if the business has to secure additional items at the last minute, or if the count goes down, then the caterer is left with product Lots of factors go into the costs of catering, from the type and amount of food you’ll be serving to even what the servers will be wearing.

An important consideration when booking a venue for your reception is if they have the adequate equipment and space to make the menu you want to serve.

they bought but don’t need. Before selecting a caterer, make sure you know what the deadline date for your final head count would be and ensure your invitations and reply dates are issued accordingly.

If you’re having a formal wedding, or even a casual one, you may want to discuss what the catering staff will wear. If you have a special request for their attire, that may incur a cost if it requires uniforms that the caterer doesn’t already own.

Because catering businesses fall under the same guidelines as the restaurant industry, health department rules must be observed. Extra food from your event may be able to be sent home with you, but how much will depend on the caterer and the venue’s ability to properly cool down and store hot food or properly store extra cold items. No one wants to get sick from food that hasn’t been properly managed. Asking your caterer all these questions in advance can help ensure you have peace of mind on your wedding day.

As you would with any service provider you’re spending a significant amount of money on, you should ask lots of questions before committing to a specific caterer. They should have workers’ compensation insurance, liability insurance, liquor liability insurance (if they’re providing bar services), a current food service permit, and a business license. You can also ask about their recent health department evaluation, and you should always request a contract or written estimate for the menu and service style you’re requesting.

Lastly, and most importantly, you should try the caterer’s food. You should like what you eat on your wedding day! If the caterer has a restaurant, ask if the food is the same as what their catering department serves. Most caterers offer tastings so you can try the items on your menu.

All caterers in the wedding industry want the same thing for you as your florist, photographer, DJ, and venue, which is to ensure you have a great time while celebrating your big day with your family and friends. And great food and drink play a big part in that.

The Season Events 300 Glenn Milner Blvd., Rome, GA 30161 (706) 234-2244 | theseasonevents.com Holly Lynch is the owner and founder of the Rome-based company The Season Events, which has been serving clients in Northwest Georgia and beyond since 2007. In addition to helping people plan their perfect wedding or gathering, she likes to travel with her husband and spend time with her two schnauzers. nwgeorgialiving.com | 23

Floral Trends for Today’s Weddings

F

lowers have always set the tone for a wedding, whether lush and abundant or refined and understated, and today’s couples are using florals not just as decoration, but also as a way to express identity, honor heritage, and elevate the guest experience.

Bouquets: Soft Color, Lush Texture, and Personal Meaning Today’s bridal bouquets favor airy, layered textures with a just-gatheredfrom-the-garden feel. Soft petal tones are especially trending — think blush, nude, dusty rose, peach, buttercream, and soft mauve. All are hues that pair beautifully with fresh greenery and lend a romantic yet modern look that photographs effortlessly.

Peonies remain a top choice for their full blooms and elegance, but ranunculus and garden roses are steadily rising in popularity given their long-lasting beauty and variety of colors. Anemones, especially the white ones with dark centers, continue to be a favorite among brides seeking a touch of drama. For dimension and whimsy, elements like lisianthus, sweet pea, and butterfly ranunculus make frequent appearances, giving bouquets movement and softness.

More and more brides are also requesting meaningful florals, sometimes including a bloom that was in their mother’s wedding bouquet, flowers from their childhood garden, or a floral color chosen to honor a loved one. These personal touches give the bouquet emotional significance that goes beyond style.

Boutonnieres and Corsages: Small Details With Style Impact Boutonnieres are becoming mini works of art. Instead of the traditional single

stem, today’s designs use clusters of petite florals, herbs, and textural greenery such as Italian ruscus, seeded eucalyptus, lavender sprigs, or dried accents. Elements like wrapped ribbon, natural twine, and silk ties elevate the finish for a polished, tailored look.

Corsages have shifted away from formal, bulky wrist pieces. A popular alternative is the floral cuff, a sleek metal bracelet accented with delicate blooms, offering comfort and elegance.

Small lapel corsages and wearable floral accessories, such as bloom-accented hair combs and floral pocket squares, are also gaining momentum.

Centerpieces: Elevated Simplicity and Guest-Friendly Design Reception florals are where a couple’s personality really shines, and the overarching trend this season is intentional simplicity. Instead of towering arrangements, couples are embracing lower tablescapes with organic flow — think soft floral runners, clusters of bud vases, or mixed heights of compotes and candles. This creates visual interest while keeping the conversation easy across the table.

Color palettes lean toward those inspired by nature — sage greens, warm neutrals, sandy taupes, and gentle pinks — and are often accented with fresh fruit, taper candles, or ceramic vessels, for a curated, timeless feel. Textured greenery remains an essential foundation, but it’s used more thoughtfully — not to fill space, but to frame and highlight blooms.

Sustainability is also influencing centerpiece choices. Many couples are requesting seasonal flowers, repurposing ceremony arrangements for the reception, or choosing designs that can be gifted to guests or donated to nursing homes, churches, or other locations after

24 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

How nature, nostalgia, and personal style bloom to enhance your special day.

BY KIM BUSSEY, OWNER, BUSSEY’S FLORIST & GIFTS

the wedding. It’s a meaningful way to extend the joy beyond the celebration.

The Heart of the Trend: Personal, Meaningful, and Beautifully You At the end of the day, the biggest trend in wedding florals is authenticity.

Couples are choosing flowers that feel like them — their love story, their aesthetic, and their memories. Whether through heirloom blooms, romantic palettes, or thoughtful tablescapes that welcome guests warmly, today’s wedding florals are less about matching tradition and more about celebrating individuality. Every bloom tells a story, and this year, couples are writing their own.

Bussey’s Florist & Gifts Locations in Rome, Cedartown, and Rockmart busseysflorist.com Kim Bussey and her husband, Todd, own Bussey’s Florist & Gifts, which has been serving Northwest Georgia since 1976. Kim has designed weddings of every style and scale and is passionate about helping couples express their love story through thoughtful, timeless floral design.

Photography by Allison Russo-Alesi

Northwest Georgia Wedding Expo Sunday, February 1, 2026 1-5pm The Forum River Center

Featuring: 40+ vendors, food & drinks, entertainment, fashion show, giveaways and more!

Your dream wedding starts here Join us for an afternoon of inspiration, planning, & local wedding experts.

Scan to buy tickets today!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Bringing Beauty Into All Life’s Moments

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Three locations Rome: 7 Central Plaza Cedartown: 302 Main St. Rockmart: 260 W. Elm St. 706-234-1040 www.busseysflorist.com

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Located in Historic Downtown Cartersville under the Church St. Bridge nwgeorgialiving.com | 25

So You Want to Fly a Drone?

It’s a growing hobby. Here’s what to know before you buy one in 2026.

BY JONATHAN CUNNINGHAM, FAA-LICENSED DRONE PILOT

M

ost people know drones these days for the sweeping, cinematic shots they see in movies, YouTube travel videos, and real estate listings, but for me, drones have been a way to document the area’s changing landscape from a perspective most people never get to see. Over the past few years, I’ve filmed everything from large-scale construction projects to nostalgic Atlanta landmarks like North DeKalb Mall and the Starlight Drive-In. I’ve used drones to tell stories — sometimes beautiful, sometimes gritty, sometimes historic — and that’s what convinced me that almost anyone can benefit from owning a drone. If they buy the right one and understand the rules before taking off, that is. So, if you’re thinking about buying your first drone, here’s some helpful info from someone who flies drones for a living, not just as a weekend hobby.

Types of Drones and Who They’re For • Entry-level drones (under 250 grams) are great for beginners who want to learn to fly without having to register with the FAA. • The higher-end prosumer drones include models like DJI’s Air 3 or Mavic series, which have features like 4K+ cameras, multiple angles, and obstacle avoidance. They’re what I use for paid client work, real estate listings, social media reels, and cinematic projects.

• Commercial/industrial drones are for things like mapping, surveying, inspections, and agricultural applications. If you don’t know you need one, you probably don’t.

What Actually Matters When Buying a Drone

• Camera sensor size and stabilization.

Shaky footage equals useless footage.

•B attery life. Twenty minutes goes by faster than you think.

•O bstacle sensors. This is handy if you plan on flying around trees or buildings and want to avoid birds and other flying objects.

•G PS and Return-to-Home. A drone “flyaway” is as bad as it sounds. Once a drone gets high enough or far enough away, you can’t see it anymore, so these navigational tools are beneficial.

• Portability. A definite consideration if you plan to travel or hike with the drone, film events, or shoot on the go.

26 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

•S upport and repair availability.

Crashes happen, even to the pros. It’s an inevitability, so make sure whatever model you buy has adequate protection and support.

What Drones Are Used For (Beyond Just Pretty Videos)

•W eddings and events. Drone shots offer an instant wow factor.

•O nline content creation. Drone footage is popular on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, as well as on tourism sites and other storytelling.

•U rban exploration and history. This is my personal niche, filming lost or demolished Atlanta spaces before they’re gone.

•R eal estate and architectural marketing. Aerial views can help sell a property before someone even steps foot inside. Some agents also use them for indoor shots and immersive tours.

•C onstruction progress documentation. I do this for large-scale developments.

Legal Aspects They Don’t Tell You About in the Ads • Any drone over 250 grams must be registered with the FAA, even if you’re just flying for fun.

• If you’re making money off a drone, even just $1, you need a Part 107 commercial license.

Drones are a way to document the landscape from a perspective most people never get to see.

A Warning: The DJI Situation I’d be doing a disservice if I didn’t mention that the drones manufactured

by Chinese tech company DJI, which

are the majority of the drones you see online, may soon be restricted or banned from sale in the U.S. As of late 2025, DJI was facing possible federal restrictions tied to FCC policy and national security legislation. That’s why you may already notice DJI drones going out of stock, delayed, or marked “not available in the U.S.” If these rules go into effect, it may affect new drone availability, firmware updates, and long-term parts and repair

DRONE SHOT

• You can’t just fly wherever you want.

Places like airports, stadiums, national parks, and crowds all have restrictions.

• Insurance isn’t required for drone pilots, but in the real world, my clients expect it, so I carry it.

support. So, if you plan to buy a drone, buy intentionally, and know that the landscape is changing. I still fly DJI drones for my professional work, but I’m also preparing backup options and watching the market closely.

Final Advice Buy a drone based on what you actually plan to do with it, not based on which one some influencer says they think is “the best.” Start small if you’re unsure and get licensed if you plan to make money. And if you need aerial footage but don’t want the learning curve? That’s why people hire professional drone pilots like me.

Jonathan Cunningham – City Cog LLC Instagram portfolio: @thefreeagent Email: jonred233@gmail.com Phone: (419) 261-3256 Jonathan Cunningham is a licensed FAA Part 107 drone pilot and the founder of City Cog LLC, a dronebased visual media company based in Atlanta. He creates cinematic aerial content for commercial clients, real estate marketing, events, and documentary-style storytelling projects across Georgia. nwgeorgialiving.com | 27

BY

ATRI C YP

Magnificently Meatless K

KATH

d GET COOKIN’

These hearty dinner options prove that vegetarian dishes don’t have to be boring.

T

here’s a common misconception that vegetarian meals are dull and tasteless. But, in reality, they can be downright delicious.

Here are two carnivore-tested and -approved vegetarian versions of typically meaty recipes.

28 | NW GEORGIA LIVING JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

The meals pictured are representations of the recipes featured in this article.

Vegetarian Chili With Fritos Serves 4-6 | Fritos in the chili and on top — need we say more?

1 large white onion, diced 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce ¼ c. tomato paste 2 15-oz. cans pinto or black beans, or one of each ¼ c. olive oil 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped ½ bunch cilantro, stems finely chopped, leaves coarsely chopped 2 tsp. chili powder 1 28-oz. can fire-roasted tomatoes 1 tbsp. Diamond Crystal salt (or 2 tsp. Morton kosher salt), plus more 5 c. vegetable broth 1½ c. Fritos (or other salty chip), divided 1 lime 1 avocado ½ c. sour cream Freshly ground black pepper

1. Dice onion, setting aside 2 tbsp. for serving.

2. Take 1 chipotle pepper from can, finely chop until a paste forms. Transfer to a small bowl, adding 1 tsp. adobo sauce from can.

Add tomato paste. Drain and rinse the two cans of beans.

3. Heat olive oil in Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat. Add onion, garlic, cilantro stems,

and chili powder. Cook, stirring often, until onion starts to soften, about 5-6 minutes.

Add tomato paste mixture and cook, stirring frequently, until brick red and beginning to stick to bottom of pan, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

Cook, stirring often, until tomatoes are cooked down and slightly darker in color, about 8-10 minutes.

5. Add beans, salt, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until reduced slightly and flavors have melded, about 30-35 minutes.

6. Stir in 1 c. Fritos and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 1-2 minutes. Squeeze in juice from half of lime, then taste for salt.

7. Cut remaining lime into 6 wedges. Dice the avocado just before serving.

8. Serve and top with sour cream, diced avocado, reserved cilantro leaves and onion, and remaining ½ c. Fritos. Season with pepper.

Fast Facts About Vegetarianism •6 % of U.S. adults are vegetarian.

•O ver the last 30 years, the prevalence of vegetarianism among Americans has jumped six-fold.

Cauliflower Bolognese

•W omen are three times more likely than men to be vegetarians.

Serves 6 | Cauliflower and mushrooms add richness and texture to this version of the classic slow-cooked ground meat sauce.

• T he main reasons people chose vegetarianism are health considerations, animal rights/ ethical concerns, ecological and environmental factors, religious beliefs, and economics.

16 oz. mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, stems removed 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 2¼ lbs.), broken into florets ¼ c. plus 2 tbsp. olive oil, plus more for drizzling 4 tbsp. butter, divided 1 large onion, finely chopped 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 serrano chile, thinly sliced (or ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes) 1 tbsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped ⅓ c. (or more) tomato paste, double-concentrated (comes in a tube) Kosher salt 1 lb. rigatoni 1 c. finely grated Parmesan, plus more for serving 3 tbsp. parsley, finely chopped ½ lemon Freshy ground pepper, to serve

1. Coarsely chop mushrooms and transfer to a bowl.

2. In a food processor, pulse cauliflower in 2 batches until pieces are about the size of a grain of rice, transferring to a medium bowl as you go.

3. Heat ¼ c. oil and 2 tbsp. butter in large, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally,

Sources: The Vegetarian Resource Group (vrg.org), Psychology Today (psychologytoday.com)

until golden brown, about 4-6 minutes. Add onion and 2 tbsp. oil to pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Add garlic, chile, and rosemary and cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is softened and mixture is very fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until paste is slightly darkened, about 2 minutes. Add cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is cooked down slightly and begins to stick to bottom of pot, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, then keep warm over low heat.

4. Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Reserve pasta water.

5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer pasta to the pot with sauce. Add Parmesan in small amounts, remaining 2 tbsp. butter, and pasta cooking liquid in ¼ c. increments, stirring after each addition. Increase heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce clings to pasta, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and add salt to taste. Finely zest lemon over pasta and toss once more.

6. Serve and top with Parmesan, pepper, and drizzle of oil.

Kathy Patrick, a resident of Rome, Georgia, loves cooking, traveling, book club, slalom waterskiing, and gym workouts, but her favorite activities are polka dancing and bicycle trips with her husband, Marty Cipollini. A retired software sales professional, Patrick volunteers with the Rome Little Theatre and Georgia chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation. nwgeorgialiving.com | 29

d ROBERT’S WORLD

A Pound of Flesh

BY ROBERT SMYTH

W

My fat cells must be Christian, because they have everlasting life.

hy is it that the older we get, the result? Aging bodies want to hang onto any harder it is to lose weight? My doctor extra body weight (even if we no longer need — or recently gave me an ultimatum: either want — them to). lose weight or become the poster Well, great! Old and fat are apparently two peas child for diabetes. in a pod. If that’s the case, then it’s only fair that Now, I’ve always been right on the border everything should work this way. For example, if between being overweight and the guy who orders you’re 60 or older, you should get to eat 20% more the left side of the menu with double fries but never sweets than everybody else and not gain any weight. has the diabetes thing come up. So, like any man If you’re 60 or older and still working, you should get who’s played a fairly sloppy first three quarters of the a 20% raise and only have to work four days a week. life game, I listened to what he had to say this time.

You see where I’m going with this. There should be To be fair, my wife was with me, an upside to the downslide, so so I was forced to listen to what to speak. Oh, there’s one more. he had to say or else.

If you’re 60 or older, your brain Since then, I’ve tried really see yourself as a sex If you’re 60 or older, should hard to go in the right direction. symbol in a bathing suit rather I’ve started eating a low-carb diet. you should get to eat than an extra-large sausage link I’m up and moving around more in a colorful wrapper. There, 20% more sweets and I’m done. and try and get to the gym when I can. So, I felt like I was doing I know I’m being a bit salty, but not gain any weight.

OK. But when I recently stepped come on. Why should everything on the scale, it showed I’d only about getting older seem like a There should be lost 3½ pounds. Wait, I’ve turned punishment rather than a reward? an upside to the down mounds and mounds of I guess I should really look at the delicious desserts and pastas for positives, if I can find any. … Okay, downslide, a measly 3½ pounds? it took me a minute, but here’s Needless to say, I was what I came up with. Being older so to speak. miffed, so I decided to do some does offer numerous advantages, research and see what the including increased wisdom, problem might be. Turns out, emotional stability, deeper I’m old. Here’s an explanation I found on a site relationships, and a greater sense of self-acceptance. called GreatSeniorLiving.com: In summary, while aging comes with its You may also have to revise your ideas about challenges, like more difficulty losing weight, it dieting if you and your healthcare provider also offers a multitude of benefits that enhance our determine that losing weight will help your quality of life, emotional well-being, and personal overall health. That’s because many seniors fulfillment. Embracing these advantages can lead to find that weight loss gets more challenging as a richer, more satisfying life experience. As good as they get older. While slower weight loss can that sounds, though, I’d still prefer six-pack abs with be frustrating, it’s also a natural part of the my personal fulfillment, thank you. aging process. … Although it might seem unfair All that said, the next time you see me, please lie in today’s more sedentary world, this process and tell me I’m looking makes sense from an evolutionary standpoint. great. I promise the same Long ago, as we grew older and our hunting in return when you reach and gathering abilities slowed down, our bodies your golden years. had to learn how to survive on less food. The

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